Sexual Assault Lawyer in Austin, Georgetown, and Temple, TX
Some of the strictest penalties are reserved for those who are convicted of sexual assault. Texas Penal Code 22.011 generally defines sexual assault as non-consensual, unwanted sexual intercourse. This can be committed through force, coercion, manipulation, violence, threat, and exploitation. If you have been charged with sexual assault, don’t hesitate to call me. A simple call may be all it takes to protect your future.
Rape in Texas
In Texas, rape and sexual assault are the same. Sexual assault becomes aggravated sexual assault through:
- Threat of death or serious bodily injury death
- Threat of kidnapping of any person
- Threat of human trafficking of any person
- Substance administered to the victim
- The victim is younger than 14 years of age.
The largest issue with rape cases in Texas is consent. A simple word from a victim saying that they were raped is sometimes enough to warrant an arrest. Often these cases are filed without the police or district attorney interviewing the suspect for their side of the story.
Indecency with a child / Statutory Rape
Texas law describes indecency with a child (commonly referred to as statutory rape) as “a sexual assault when any person intentionally and knowingly penetrates another individual under the age of 17 who is not their spouse.” In Texas, this is charged as indecency with a child, or sexual assault of a child. It is a defense to this crime if the accused is less than three years older than the said victim and the victim is at least 14 years in age.
Indecency with a child is a serious crime with serious penalties. The sentencing range can be from 2 to 20 years in prison for a first offense and depending on the age of the victim and the alleged conduct. The charge can be filed as indecency by contact or indecency by exposure. If you have been charged with indecency with a child, you need to take action immediately to protect your future. Call me today to learn how I can help your case.
How I Defend Against Rape and Statutory Rape Charges
Each case is unique to the charged, the alleged victim, the circumstances, and level of the offense. Given their sensitive nature in our current political climate, sexual crimes are not easily defended. As your criminal defense attorney, I will look at all areas of the case and try to find the evidence needed to get your case dismissed or lessen your penalties. A charge on your record for any sexual crime can make it hard to continue with a comfortable life. Your freedom, job, family, school, dignity, and daily life are all at risk. Your plans for the future are put on hold and become difficult to achieve. Call today to learn how I can help you defend your case.
Contact Eric Harron, Sexual Assault & Rape Attorney in Austin, TX
If you have been accused of sexual assault, or rape, in or around Austin, Texas, do not hesitate to call the Law Office Of Eric Harron at 512-963-8855. We have had years of experience representing and helping people who have been wrongfully accused of crimes they did not commit. For more information on recent cases, see the “Recent Verdicts” below. If you have any questions or you want to receive a free consultation of your case, contact us today! We are determined to help you get your case dismissed.
Recent Verdicts
State v. M.T.
The client was arrested for sexual assault. Alleged victim and Client were at a motel together where he allegedly strangled her and raped her twice over the course of the evening. Extensive forensic testing of the victim was completed prior to trial. Result: Not Guilty jury verdict.
State v. M.S.
Client was arrested for sexual assault allegedly forcing a woman to have sex with him and beating her in the process. While this case is pending another allegation form a different woman with similar facts arise and a new charge is filed. Result: One case dismissed, the other is pled to a misdemeanor assault with no family violence finding.
State v. K.B.
Client was arrested for allegedly molesting a child at a daycare where he worked. This arrest was made after the police and the Department of Family and Protective Services conducted investigations. There was extensive media coverage of the arrest. Result: Case dismissed in the interest of justice.